Radiation therapy (also known as radiotherapy) uses targeted, high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy is vital after lumpectomy (also called breast conserving surgery), since much of the breast tissue is left intact. It kills any cancer that might be left in or around the breast.
Many women who have a mastectomy do not need radiation therapy. However, in some cases, radiation is used after mastectomy to treat the chest wall and the lymph nodes around the collarbone and in the armpit (axillary nodes).
When is radiation therapy a treatment option?
Radiation therapy after surgery is an option for women who have ductal carcinoma in situ, early stage breast cancer, locally advanced breast cancer or inflammatory breast cancer. However, certain health conditions can make radiation therapy harmful. These include:
- Scleroderma or systemic lupus. These disorders can keep tissue from healing correctly after radiation therapy. (In some cases, radiation therapy may still be used.)
- Past radiation therapy to the same breast. In general, radiation therapy to the breast can only be given once. (In rare cases, radiation to the same breast may be repeated.)
- Pregnancy. Radiation can harm a fetus, so it is not given during pregnancy. However, a woman may be able to have a lumpectomy and put off radiation therapy until after delivery.
Radiation therapy and breast implants
Women who have breast implants (both saline and silicone) can have radiation therapy. However, implants can make radiation therapy planning more complex. Radiation can cause scarring and hardening of the implant, leading to a poor cosmetic look.
If your treatment plan includes mastectomy, radiation therapy and breast reconstruction, discuss possible risks with your breast surgeon and radiation oncologist.
Learn more about breast reconstruction.
Radiation therapy guidelines
Although the exact treatment for breast cancer varies from person to person, some organizations have treatment guidelines to help ensure quality care. These guidelines are based on the latest research and the consensus of experts. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and National Comprehensive Care Network (NCCN) are two respected organizations that regularly update and post their guidelines online. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) also has overviews of treatment options.
Importance of following your breast cancer treatment plan
The importance of adherence (compliance)
Breast cancer treatment is most effective when all parts of the treatment plan are followed. Adherence (also called compliance) is how closely people follow the treatment plan (for medicines and other therapies) prescribed by their health care providers in terms of:
Completing radiation therapy after lumpectomy
Radiation therapy after lumpectomy lowers the risk of recurrence and increases the chances of survival [8]. It is a vital part of your treatment plan if you have a lumpectomy.
Radiation therapy for early breast cancer usually involves treatment five days a week for three to seven weeks. Getting to and from the treatment center this many times can be hard, especially if you live far away. If you a need ride to and from treatment, there are resources that can help. Family and friends often want to help, but do not know how. This is a way they can help you. And, organizations like the American Cancer Society offer programs to assist with transportation. They also offer lodging if you need a place to stay overnight so that you can get treatment.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your co-survivors or contact organizations that offer help with transportation or lodging. What is important is that you complete your radiation therapy.
Learn more about adherence.
Updated 05/21/11
